Chuandongan Tiankeng

Introducing Chuandongan Tiankeng

Chuandong Temple is located on Chuanzhu Mountain, approximately 1,400 meters above sea level, about 3 kilometers south of Zengjiachang Town, Chaotian District, Guangyuan City, Sichuan Province. Due to the action of underground karst water, Chuandong Temple has formed a geological wonder: a tiankeng (sinkhole), an urn-shaped vertical cave, and a natural bridge. It is part of the Zengjiashan Scenic Area, a national 4A-level scenic spot.

Chuandong'an, a cenote dating from the Cretaceous period, consists of two funnel-shaped structures: a tiankeng (sinkhole) and an urn-shaped vertical cave. The tiankeng, approximately 100 meters long and wide, and 50 meters deep, holds a volume of approximately 500,000 cubic meters, making it the largest alpine tiankeng discovered in northern Sichuan. The urn-shaped vertical cave exhibits a rare genetic type and morphological characteristics in China, and its scale is truly remarkable, making it of great value for both observation and research. Water gurgles through a skylight at the top of the vertical cave, creating a vibrant mist as it falls. A pool at the bottom connects to an underground river, reaching a depth of approximately 2 meters during the rainy season. The blend of warm and cold air currents creates a breathtaking atmosphere within the tiankeng, creating a breathtaking spectacle.

Chuandong Temple is surrounded by emerald green mountains and trees, with plank roads hanging in the air and winding paths leading to secluded places. It is bathed in morning sunshine and evening shade, and the scenery is magnificent. It is a must-visit place for tourists to enjoy the scenery.

On May 7, 2014, Chuandong Temple was jointly awarded the title of "The Most Beautiful Scenic Spot in Sichuan" by the Sichuan Provincial Tourism Bureau, Sichuan Provincial Department of Transportation, Sichuan Provincial Bureau of Surveying, Mapping and Geoinformation and China National Geographic Magazine.

Climate and best time to travel

April to November, best for summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

About 4 hours

Tickets

About 50 yuan

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Chuandongan Tiankeng

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Chuandongan Tiankeng is a natural geological wonder, formed over millions of years. It holds scientific significance due to its unique rock formations and ecosystem, which have provided researchers with valuable insights into geological processes and biodiversity in the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Chuandongan Tiankeng is located in Guangyuan, Sichuan Province. It is accessible by bus or taxi from the nearby city of Guangyuan, approximately 30 kilometers away. There are no metro lines in the area, so private transportation or local taxis are the best options.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Tiankeng is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild and the landscape is particularly scenic. Summer can be crowded with tourists, and winter may be less ideal due to colder temperatures.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee for Chuandongan Tiankeng is approximately 80 CNY. Tickets can be purchased onsite or via local travel agencies. It is not typically available for online booking, so it is best to buy tickets upon arrival.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for visiting Chuandongan Tiankeng. However, booking a guided tour or special activities may require advance reservation, especially during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Chuandongan Tiankeng typically takes 2-3 hours, allowing enough time for walking around the sinkhole, taking photographs, and exploring the surrounding trails.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the massive sinkhole itself, with its dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. Additionally, the surrounding nature reserve offers picturesque views, and the local flora and fauna are unique to this area.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides if requested. Audio guides are not commonly available at this site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are at the edges of the sinkhole, offering panoramic views of the geological formations and the lush environment. The surrounding cliffs provide excellent angles for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended itinerary starts with a visit to the sinkhole’s main viewpoint. Afterward, take a walk around the perimeter to admire the various geological features, followed by a hike along the nearby trails to explore the surrounding nature.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows at Chuandongan Tiankeng. The site is best visited during the daytime to fully appreciate the natural beauty and geological formations.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Chuandongan Tiankeng can be crowded during holidays and weekends, especially in summer. The least crowded times are weekdays during the off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as public toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available near the entrance. There are a few local shops offering snacks and souvenirs, but there are limited dining options within the site itself.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The terrain around Chuandongan Tiankeng may be challenging for elderly visitors, children, or disabled individuals, especially along the hiking trails. However, the main viewpoints are accessible by paved paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in the area, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted at most places, including ticket counters and shops.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small local restaurants and cafes in the nearby town of Guangyuan, offering Sichuanese cuisine and simple snacks. Within the park, only basic food stalls are available.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited. It's best to check with local restaurants for specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses in Guangyuan, which is about 30 km from Chuandongan Tiankeng. For a more immersive experience, visitors may opt for a local guesthouse in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Mount Qingcheng, famous for its Taoist temples, and the historic city of Guangyuan, which offers cultural sites like the Emperor’s Temple and ancient city walls.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near Chuandongan Tiankeng sell local handicrafts, including Tibetan-style jewelry, handmade scarves, and traditional Sichuanese items such as tea and spices.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Chuandongan Tiankeng, the best transportation options are to take a bus or taxi back to Guangyuan. From there, visitors can continue their trip to other parts of Sichuan or even Chengdu via bus or train.